2018-05-18
The Australian Greens are thrilled to announce Major ‘Moogy’ Sumner AM, Ngarrindjeri elder, will contest the seat of Mayo in the upcoming by-election.
The Greens’ campaign will focus on putting people and the environment back at the centre of decision-making, including saving the Murray, protecting the Great Australian Bight, while fighting to address inequality and for more Aboriginal representation in the federal parliament.
“Moogy is a strong advocate for people and planet and what connects us all as South Australians. He is a passionate advocate for the health of our land and waterways, and dedicated to sharing his cultural values through his work in schools and the community,” Greens Senator for South Australia Sarah Hanson-Young said.
“Moogy and I have stood shoulder to shoulder on protecting the Murray, and making sure the River gets the water it needs to survive. We will be working hard over the coming weeks to make sure the people of Mayo know there is a strong Greens’ choice in the upcoming by-election.
“South Australia has sadly never had representation in the Federal Parliament from our First People, and Moogy would be a great credit to our state.”
Mr Sumner is a world-renowned artist, performer and cultural ambassador. He became a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2014, after dedicating his life to promoting Aboriginal health and welfare, and youth and cultural heritage. He formed the Talkindjeri Dance Group almost 30 years ago, and has performed around the world.
“I’m excited to put my hand up to represent my country and our community in Mayo,” Mr Sumner said.
“We need something different in Canberra if we want things to change. By looking at things from a cultural perspective, we can do more to care for people and country. As caretakers of our country we deserve to be a part of making decisions that affect the River, the land, and all of us. Now is the time to speak up to protect the environment and help care for people.
“There are too many corporations like Cubbie Station taking more water than they need, and the Coorong and the Murray Darling are suffering. We all have a part to play in looking after our environment, living sustainably together, and doing what’s right.
“It’s greed that has allowed our rivers to be drained and the Great Australian Bight to be put at risk from big oil and gas companies. By educating our young people and investing in renewable energy, we can do what is right by our country and each other.”